Kitchenware washing assemblies and related methods

ABSTRACT

A kitchenware washing assembly is provided for washing kitchenware. The assembly includes a tank configured to hold fluid for washing the kitchenware, a pump configured to circulate fluid within the tank, and a control system configured to control operation of the pump. The pump is operable at two or more different speeds to create two or more different levels of fluid turbulence within the tank. And, the control system is configured to operate the pump at a first one of the two or more different speeds for a specified time period and then cycle operation of the pump to a second one of the two or more different speeds. A temperature sensor configured to monitor temperature of the fluid is included in communication with the control system. And, the control system is configured to terminate operation of the pump if a temperature of the fluid falls below a specified temperature.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of, and priority to, U.S.Provisional Application No. 61/498,381, filed Jun. 17, 2011, the entiredisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to kitchenware washing assemblies, andmethods related to washing kitchenware using such assemblies.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the presentdisclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Commercial washers have been in the marketplace for decades. Many of thecommercial washers that are currently on the market include multipletanks for various cleaning stages (e.g., a scraping tank, washing tank,rinsing tank, and sanitizing tank, etc.). The washing tank, at a basiclevel, typically includes features such as a rectangular tank with adrain, a valve for closing the tank's drain, nozzles attached to wallsof the tank for directing water down into the tank, and a pump tocirculate water from within the tank into a manifold that feeds thewater through the nozzles.

SUMMARY

This section provides a general summary of the disclosure, and is not acomprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

Example embodiments of the present disclosure are generally directedtoward kitchenware washing assemblies. In one example embodiment, suchan assembly generally includes a tank configured to hold fluid forwashing kitchenware, a pump in fluidic communication with the tank andconfigured to circulate fluid within the tank, and a control systemconfigured to control operation of the pump. The pump is operable at twoor more different speeds to thereby create two or more different levelsof fluid turbulence within the tank. And, the control system isconfigured to operate the pump at a first one of the two or moredifferent speeds for a specified time period and then cycle operation ofthe pump to a second one of the two or more different speeds.

Example embodiments of the present disclosure are also generallydirected toward control systems for use with the kitchenware washingassemblies. In one example embodiment, a control system is configured tobe coupled to a pump and a temperature sensor of a kitchenware washingassembly. Here, the control system generally includes a toggleconfigured to activate a pump of a kitchenware washing assembly forcirculating washing fluid in the kitchenware washing assembly, and arelay configured to terminate operation of the pump if a temperature ofwashing fluid in the kitchenware washing assembly falls below aspecified temperature as measured by a temperature sensor of thekitchenware washing assembly.

Example embodiments of the present disclosure are also directed towardmethods for washing kitchenware using commercial top-loading kitchenwarewashing assemblies. In one example embodiment an automated method forwashing kitchenware using a commercial top-loading kitchenware washingassembly generally includes agitating washing fluid in a tank for aspecified time period to thereby create a first level of turbulence inthe tank for washing kitchenware in the tank; after the specified timeperiod, agitating the washing fluid in the tank to create a second levelof turbulence in the tank, wherein the first level of turbulence in thetank is greater than the second level of turbulence in the tank;measuring a temperature of the washing fluid used for washing thekitchenware in the tank; and deactivating the pump if the measuredtemperature of the washing fluid is below a specified temperature.

Further areas of applicability will become apparent from the descriptionprovided herein. It should be understood that various aspects of thisdisclosure may be implemented individually or in combination with one ormore other aspects, elements or features described herein and/orillustrated in the drawings, and in a wide variety of configurations.Accordingly, it should be understood that the description and specificexamples in this disclosure are intended for purposes of illustrationonly and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only ofselected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are notintended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a front elevation view of a kitchenware washing assemblyaccording to one exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the kitchenware washing assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary front elevation view of a washing unit of thekitchenware washing assembly of FIG. 1 illustrating a scraping stationand a washing station of the washing unit, and with part of a skirtremoved and part of a sink of the scraping station and a tank of thewashing station removed to show interior features of the kitchenwarewashing assembly;

FIG. 4 is the fragmentary front elevation view of the washing unit shownin FIG. 3, with an intake cover removed to expose a portion of an intakechamber of the washing unit;

FIG. 5 is the fragmentary front elevation view of the washing unit shownin FIG. 3, with a portion of the intake chamber shown in broken lines;

FIG. 6 is the fragmentary front elevation view of the washing unit shownin FIG. 4, with a portion of a rearward wall of the washing unit removedto expose an interior portion of the intake chamber of the washing unit;

FIG. 7 is a fragmentary top plan view of the washing unit of thekitchenware washing assembly of FIG. 1, with part of the sink of thescraping station and part of the tank of the washing station removed toshow configuration of a circulation system of the kitchenware washingassembly;

FIG. 8 is the fragmentary to plan view of the washing unit shown in FIG.7, further illustrating a screen positioned within the intake chamber ofthe washing unit;

FIG. 9 is a fragmentary perspective view of a discharge chamber anddischarge cover of the kitchenware washing assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of a sanitizing unit of thekitchenware washing assembly of FIG. 1 illustrating a rinsing stationand a sanitizing station of the washing unit;

FIG. 11 is a schematic of a wiring configuration for use with a controlsystem of the kitchenware washing assembly of FIG. 1;

FIG. 12 is a schematic of a wiring configuration according to oneexample embodiment of the present disclosure for use with a controlsystem of a kitchenware washing assembly;

FIG. 13 is a schematic of a wiring configuration according to anotherexample embodiment of the present disclosure for use with a controlsystem of a kitchenware washing assembly;

FIG. 14 is a schematic of a wiring configuration according to yetanother example embodiment of the present disclosure for use with acontrol system of a kitchenware washing assembly;

FIG. 15 is a schematic of a wiring configuration according to stillanother example embodiment of the present disclosure for use with acontrol system of a kitchenware washing assembly;

FIG. 16 is a schematic of a wiring configuration according to anotherexample embodiment of the present disclosure for use with a controlsystem of a kitchenware washing assembly;

FIG. 17 is a schematic of a wiring configuration according to stillanother example embodiment of the present disclosure for use with acontrol system of a kitchenware washing assembly;

FIG. 18 is a schematic of a wiring configuration according to anotherexample embodiment of the present disclosure for use with a controlsystem of a kitchenware washing assembly;

FIG. 19 is a schematic of a wiring configuration according to stillanother example embodiment of the present disclosure for use with acontrol system of a kitchenware washing assembly;

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of an intake cover according to an exampleembodiment of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of a screen configured for use with theintake cover of FIG. 20.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughoutthe several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments are provided herein so that this disclosure will bethorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled inthe art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples ofspecific components, devices, and methods, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It will beapparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need not beemployed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many differentforms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of thedisclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes,well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are notdescribed in detail.

Features of the present disclosure can be implemented into variousembodiments of kitchenware washing assemblies configured for use toclean kitchenware. The kitchenware washing assemblies may be operable toclean a variety of kitchenware, including, for example, dishware, foodservice ware and equipment, pots, pans, food trays, grease filters,gratings, any other items found in kitchens that may require cleaning,etc. In some embodiments, the kitchenware washing assemblies areconfigured as commercial top-loading assemblies for use in commercialsettings such as commercial kitchens, etc.

Kitchenware washing assemblies of the present disclosure includecirculation systems configured to circulate washing fluid within tanksof the assemblies for cleaning kitchenware in the tanks. Circulating thewashing fluid may create turbulence in the tanks to help clean thekitchenware and loosen food residues or remnants on the kitchenware. Toachieve this fluid circulation, the circulation systems may include oneor more pumps configured to remove washing fluid from the tanks of theassemblies and discharge the removed washing fluid back into the tanks.In some embodiments, the circulation systems may remove the washingfluid from the tanks through one or more inlets associated with thetanks and discharge the removed washing fluid back into the tanksthrough one or more outlets associated with the tanks. The inlets and/orthe outlets may each be associated with single individual walls of thetanks, or they may each be associated with multiple walls of the tanks.

Kitchenware washing assemblies of the present disclosure may also (oralternatively) include temperature sensors configured to monitor (e.g.,sense, measure, track, record, report, etc.) temperature of washingfluid in tanks of the kitchenware washing assemblies. The monitoredtemperature of the washing fluid may be used to help control kitchenwarewashing operations by ensuring sufficiently heated washing fluid ispresent in the assemblies during use. In some embodiments, thetemperature sensors may be disposed at least partly within washing tanksof the assemblies. And in some embodiments, the temperature sensors maybe disposed at least partly within chambers associated with the washingtanks (e.g., intake chambers, etc.).

Kitchenware washing assemblies of the present disclosure may also (oralternatively) include screen features to protect pumps of theassemblies. For example, in some embodiments, intake covers may beprovided to cover intake chambers of the kitchenware washing assemblies.The intake covers can allow fluid to flow from tanks of the kitchenwarewashing assemblies into the intake chambers (which then direct the fluidto the pumps), but can inhibit movement of objects (e.g., kitchenware,food particles, etc.) into the intake chambers (which, if drawn into thepumps, could adversely affect their operation). The intake covers canalso help direct fluid flow in the tanks and help create circular,rotating, etc. fluid patterns in the tanks to improve cleaningoperations. And, in some of these embodiments, additional screens may beprovided over openings in the intake chambers that lead to the pumps(and that direct the fluid from the intake chambers to the pumps). Thesescreens can allow the fluid to flow from the intake chambers to thepumps, but can inhibit movement of any unintended objects (e.g., paper,tape, plastic, knives, other kitchenware, straws, food particles,debris, etc. to the pumps (e.g., any items that may inadvertently passthrough the intake covers, etc.). Thus, two lines of protection can beprovided to the pumps in such embodiments.

Kitchenware washing assemblies of the present disclosure may also (oralternatively) include one or more pump sensors (e.g., voltage sensors,potentiometers, current sensors, power sensors, flow sensors, pressuresensors, fluid displacement sensors, or any other sensors that cansense, measure, or otherwise determine voltage, current, power,resistance, or other parameter of the pumps, etc.) configured to monitorperformance of the pumps. For example, the pump sensors can be used tomonitor operating parameters of the pumps (e.g., voltage usage, currentdraw, etc.) indicative of performance of the pumps (e.g., indicative offluid flow to and/or through the pumps, etc.). As such, in some exampleembodiments the pump sensors can be used to sense undesired restrictionsin fluid flow to and/or through the pumps (e.g., indicating thatopenings, inlets, inlet covers, screens, etc. leading to the pumps maybe blocked, indicating that the pumps should be cleaned, etc.) which, inturn, can be used to help optimize operation of the pumps and/or protectthe pumps from damage and/or help ensure cleanliness and sanitationoperations of the assemblies (e.g., help ensure that the pumps areoperating properly to discharge fluid into the assemblies at sufficientpressures, velocities, etc. to properly clean kitchenware in theassemblies, etc.).

In addition (or alternatively), kitchenware washing assemblies of thepresent disclosure may include control systems configured to control oneor more operations of the assemblies. Such operations may includecirculation of washing fluid in the assemblies (e.g., degree ofagitation of the washing fluid, duration of circulation of the washingfluid, volume of washing fluid being circulated, etc.), temperature ofthe washing fluid in the assembly, wash agent addition to the washingfluid in the assembly, etc. For example, in some embodiments, thecontrol systems may be configured to control pump operations tocirculate washing fluid in the assembly. In particular, the controlsystems may be configured to alter the frequencies of the pumps, whendesired, to speed up or slow down or turn off the pumps. The controlsystems may also be configured to synchronize operations of two or morepumps (e.g., operate the two or more pumps sequentially, operate the twoor more pumps in tandem at the same time, operate the two or more pumpsto provide pulsating fluid flows, operating the two or more pumps toprovide surging fluid flows, etc.) to achieve desired circulation ofwashing fluid in the assemblies (and desired cleaning operations).

In some example embodiments, the control systems may also (oralternatively) be configured to communicate with temperature sensors toreceive temperature signals relating to temperature of washing fluid inthe assemblies. The received temperature signals may then be used as abasis to control one or more operations of the assemblies. For example,if the received temperature signals indicate that temperature of thewashing fluid is below a specified (e.g., a predetermined, apre-programmed, a manually entered, etc.) temperature, the controlsystems may activate warning signals (e.g., lights, sounds, datamessages, etc.) indicating that the temperature of the washing fluid islow. In embodiments in which the specified temperature is selected, set,or predetermined to be a critical washing temperature needed foreffective kitchenware cleaning (e.g., about 85 degrees Fahrenheitplus/minus an acceptable variation within industry standards, etc.),then the control systems may also (or alternatively) be configured todeactivate the circulation systems and prevent further operation of theassembly, such as until the received temperature signals indicate thatthe temperature of the washing fluid is acceptable (e.g., at or abovethe critical washing temperature, etc.). In some example embodiments,the control systems may also include override features (e.g., keyedlocks, coded locks, etc.) configured to override the deactivation orderto allow continued use of the assemblies (e.g., continued operation ofthe circulation systems, etc.) even though the received temperaturesignals indicate that temperature of the washing fluid is below acritical washing temperature.

In some example embodiments, the control systems may also (oralternatively) be configured to communicate with the pump sensors of thekitchenware washing assemblies to receive signals indicative of theperformance of the pumps. For example, if the received signals indicatethat monitored parameters of the pumps deviate from specified (e.g., apredetermined, a pre-programmed, a manually entered, etc.) values, thecontrol systems may activate warning signals (e.g., lights, sounds, datamessages, etc.) indicating that the pumps should be serviced and/or thatthe kitchenware washing assemblies should be inspected (e.g., for itemsblocking fluid flow to the pumps, etc.). Further, in some of theseembodiments, the control systems may also (or alternatively) beconfigured to deactivate the pumps and prevent further operation of theassemblies until the pumps are serviced and/or the assemblies areinspected.

It should be appreciated that individual elements or features ofparticular embodiments described herein are generally not limited tothose particular embodiments but, where applicable, are interchangeableand can be used in other selected embodiments, even if not specificallyshown or described. The same may also be varied in many ways. Thus,kitchenware washing assemblies and methods of washing kitchenware usingsuch assemblies may have any desired combination of aspects, elementsand/or features described herein.

FIGS. 1-11 illustrate a kitchenware washing assembly 100 according toone example embodiment of the present disclosure. The illustratedwashing assembly 100 is a commercial top-loading washing assembly 100.For example, the assembly 100 can be used in commercial settings such ascommercial kitchens, etc. to clean a variety of kitchenware, including,for example, dishware, food service ware and equipment, pots, pans, foodtrays, grease filters, gratings, or any other items found in commercialkitchens that may require cleaning.

As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the illustrated assembly 100 generallyincludes a modular washing unit 102 and a sanitizing unit 104. Thewashing unit 102 is used to pre-rinse and then clean desiredkitchenware. And, the sanitizing unit 104 is used to rinse the cleanedkitchenware and then sanitize the kitchenware in preparation forsubsequent use. The sanitizing unit 104 is coupled (e.g., releasablycoupled, etc.) to the washing unit 102 for support, generally to theright of the washing unit 102 (as viewed in FIGS. 1 and 2). This allowsfor easy setup of the washing unit 102 and the sanitizing unit 104 inany desired facility (e.g., in any desired sized/shaped room, etc.).This also allows for convenient transfer of cleaned kitchenware from thewashing unit 102 to the sanitizing unit 104. In other exampleembodiments, washing assemblies may include washing units and sanitizingunits coupled differently than disclosed herein (e.g., not coupled;coupled to different portions of the units; coupled to form differentshapes, for example, L-shapes to thereby accommodate differentinstallation needs, different sized/shape rooms, etc.; etc.).

The washing unit 102 generally includes a scraping station 106 and awashing station 108. The scraping station 106 is used to initially rinseand remove bulk food items and other residue from the kitchenware priorto cleaning. And, the washing station 108 is used to then wash thekitchenware as desired. The scraping station 106 is located to the leftof the washing station 108 (as viewed in FIGS. 1 and 2), again to allowconvenient (and staged) transfer of kitchenware from the scrapingstation 106 to the washing station 108. In other example embodiments,washing units may include washing stations without scraping stations. Inother example embodiments, washing units may include scraping stationsand washing stations oriented differently than disclosed herein (e.g.,scraping stations not part of the same unit as washing stations,scraping stations releasably coupled to washing stations, scrapingstations positioned toward a different side of washing stations, etc.).In other example embodiments, splash guards may be coupled (e.g.,releasably coupled, bolted, snap-fit coupled, quick-release coupled,etc.) around perimeters of scraping stations and/or washing stations ofkitchenware washing assemblies, for example, to help inhibit fluidspillage from out of the stations, to help inhibit contamination of thewashing stations with scraped food particles from the scraping stations,etc.

Any suitable washing fluid can be used in the scraping station 106 andwashing station 108 to initially rinse and/or clean the kitchenware(e.g., water, etc.). And, any suitable wash agent (e.g., soap, etc.),chemical, etc. can be added to the washing fluid to help with, enhance,etc. rinsing and/or cleaning of the kitchenware. Further, the wash agent(e.g., soap, etc.), chemical, etc. can be added to the washing fluid(e.g., in the washing station 108, in a stream of flow of the washingfluid, etc.) manually, by automated injection systems (e.g., such asinjection devices disclosed in U.S. 2010/0139701, etc.), etc.

With additional reference to FIG. 3, the illustrated scraping station106 includes a sink 110 configured to catch bulk food items and residueremoved from the kitchenware prior to cleaning. A drain 112 is providedin the sink 110 to remove any fluid from the sink 110 used to initiallyrinse the kitchenware, along with any removed bulk food items and/orresidue. The sink 110 is sloped toward the drain 112 to cause the fluidto flow to the drain 112. The drain 112 can be conventionally coupled toplumbing and/or drainage systems to ultimately dispose of the fluid,food items, and/or residue. And, as noted above, splash guards may becoupled around a perimeter of the sink 110 of the scraping station 106,for example, to help inhibit contamination of the washing station 108with scraped food particles from the scraping station 106, etc.

While not illustrated, the scraping station 106 may also be equipped toseparate bulk food items and/or residue pre-rinsed from the kitchenwarefrom the rinsing fluid. The separated food items and/or residue can thenbe disposed separately from the rinsing fluid. For example, a removableperforated cover or screen may be provided over the sink of the scrapingstation 106 to help catch large food items and/or residue and allow forseparate disposal thereof. In addition, the scraping station 106 mayfurther be equipped with structure to dispose of grease, etc. pre-rinsedfrom the kitchenware as desired.

The washing station 108 includes a tank 114 configured to hold washingfluid for use in cleaning the kitchenware. The illustrated tank 114 isgenerally rectangular in shape and is defined by side walls 116, 118, arearward wall 120, a forward wall 122, and a bottom wall 124. In theillustrated embodiment, lower portions of the side walls 116, 118 areangled generally downwardly toward the bottom wall 124 (e.g., betweenabout sixty degrees and about eighty degrees, etc.). A drain 126 isprovided in the bottom wall 124 of the tank 114 to remove the washingfluid from the tank 114 (e.g., following cleaning operation, etc.). Thebottom wall 124 is downwardly sloped toward the drain 126 to cause fluidto flow to the drain 126. A valve 128 is positioned in communicationwith the drain 126 and can be selectively opened to allow washing fluidto be removed from the tank 114 and closed to allow for retention ofwashing fluid in the tank 114. The drain 126 can be conventionallycoupled to plumbing and/or drainage systems to ultimately dispose ofwashing fluid removed from the tank 114.

With reference now to FIGS. 3-6, the washing unit 102 also includes acirculation system 130 in fluidic communication with the tank 114 of thewashing station 108. The circulation system 130 operates to circulatewashing fluid within the tank 114 for cleaning kitchenware in the tank114. For example, the circulation system 130 can circulate fluid withinthe tank 114 to create turbulence in the tank 114 (e.g., to move,agitate, etc. the washing fluid in the tank 114, etc.) to help clean thekitchenware and loosen tough food residues or remnants that can becomecaked onto kitchenware during cooking or food preparation processes. Thecirculation system 130 can also create different levels of turbulence inthe tank 114, for example, to clean kitchenware with different types offood residues thereon, to clean different types of kitchenware (e.g.,plastic kitchenware, glass kitchenware, metal kitchenware, etc.).

The illustrated circulation system 130 includes a pump 132 positioned ona support platform 133 a of the washing unit 102 and conduits 134interconnecting (e.g., via welds, mechanical fasteners, adhesives,friction, etc.) the pump 132 between an intake chamber 136 of the tank114 and a discharge chamber 138 of the tank 114. As such, the pump 132is in fluidic communication with the tank 114 via the intake chamber 136and the discharge chamber 138. The pump 132 can then operate tocirculate washing fluid out of the tank 114, through the intake chamber136, to the discharge chamber 138, and back into the tank 114. Thisoperation will be described in more detail hereinafter. With that said,it should be appreciated that the assembly 100 could include two or morepumps to circulate washing fluid in the tank 114 (e.g., with the pumpsoperating together to create different levels of fluid turbulence in thetank 114, with the pumps operating independently to create differentlevels of fluid turbulence in the tank 114, etc.).

The pump 132 is located on the support platform 133 a under the tank 114of the washing station 108. The pump 132 is a variable speed pump thatcan operate at two or more different operating speeds (in addition to an“off” condition). The pump 132 can thus create two or more differentlevels of turbulence of washing fluid within the tank 114, depending onthe operating speed. For example, at one operating speed the pump 132can provide a higher level of turbulence for cleaning kitchenware (e.g.,for removing inordinately caked-on food from the kitchenware, forcleaning durable kitchenware such as glass and metal kitchenware, etc.).And at a second operating speed (e.g., at an idle mode, etc.), the pump132 can provide a lower level of turbulence (e.g., for preventinggrease, debris, etc. suspended in the washing fluid from settling backonto the cleaned kitchenware; for cleaning delicate kitchenware such asplastic kitchenware; etc.). The cleaned kitchenware can also be easilyremoved from the tank 114 at this lower level of turbulence with reducedrisk of splashing an operator with the washing fluid. A drain can bepositioned toward a low point of the pump 132 to drain fluid from thepump 132 as needed. In some embodiments, circulation systems (e.g.,utilizing single pumps, utilizing multiple pumps, etc.) may provide atleast three levels of turbulence, including first, high levels ofturbulence for cleaning kitchenware with caked-on food residue and/ordurable kitchenware; second, medium levels of turbulence for cleaningkitchenware with only moderate food residue and/or delicate kitchenware;and third, low levels of turbulence as an idle mode (e.g., forpreventing grease, debris, etc. suspended in the washing fluid fromsettling back onto the cleaned kitchenware, etc.).

The intake chamber 136 is positioned along the rearward wall 120 of thetank 114 in fluidic communication with pump 132. The intake chamber 136is also in fluidic communication with the tank 114 through an opening140 (FIG. 4) defined in the rearward wall 120 of the tank 114. In theillustrated embodiment, the intake chamber 136 is the only intakechamber in the tank 114. Additional intake chambers are not located onother walls (e.g., walls 116, 118, 122, etc.) of the tank 114. With thatsaid, the intake chamber 136 could alternatively be positioned alonganother of the walls (e.g., walls 116, 118, 122, etc.) of the tank 114,or along a different portion of the rearward wall 120 than illustratedherein. In other example embodiments, washing assemblies may includeintake chambers located on multiple different walls of tanks, multipleintake chambers located on common walls in tanks, etc.

An intake cover 142 (FIG. 3) is positioned over the intake chamber 136(FIG. 4) at opening 140 and is coupled to the tank 114 via suitablefasteners (e.g., mechanical fasteners, etc.). The intake cover 142includes multiple inlets 144 (e.g., openings, etc.) uniformly and evenlyspaced across at least part of the intake cover 142. The inlets 144allow fluid to be drawn (e.g., via suction, etc.) into the intakechamber 136 (through the inlets 144), while the intake cover 142restricts unintended objects (e.g., food debris, kitchenware items likesilverware, etc.) from entering the intake chamber 136 (and the pump132). The location and/or orientation and/or size of the inlets 144 canalso help improve cleaning operation of the assembly 100 by, forexample, assisting in shaping desired wave forms in the tank 114,directing flow of fluid in the tank 114 in desired patterns, and/orlofting/floating/circulating kitchenware in the tank 114 (e.g., incombination with the fluid being discharged into the tank 114 via thedischarge chamber 138 to thereby create a push/pull action on thekitchenware in the tank, etc.).

In the illustrated embodiment, the intake cover 142 is positioned over aportion of the intake chamber 136 (with the rearward wall of the tank114 covering a remaining portion of the intake chamber 136) away from anopening 154 (FIG. 5) where the conduit 134 a couples the pump 132 to theintake chamber 136. This configuration helps maintain generally constantfluid pressure within the intake chamber 136 at the opening 154, andthus helps provide generally uniform flow of fluid to the pump 132(e.g., helps inhibit low pressure conditions from developing within thepump 132, etc.). In other example embodiments, intake covers may bepositioned over substantially entire portions of intake chambers, withopenings formed, patterned, etc. in the intake covers at locations awayfrom where pumps draw fluid out of the intake chambers (such that theintake covers may have no openings at locations adjacent where the pumpsdraw fluid out of the intake chambers and then have openings (e.g.,uniformly spaced openings, etc.) at locations spaced away from where thepumps draw fluid out of the intake chambers to thereby allow the fluidto move from tanks into the intake chambers and provide generallyuniform fluid flow to the pumps from the chambers).

Also, the inlets 144 are spaced laterally away from the opening 154where the conduit 134 a couples the pump 132 to the intake chamber 136.For example, in the illustrated embodiment each of the inlets 144 isspaced laterally away from the opening 154 a distance 145 (FIG. 5) of atleast about ten inches (e.g., about ten inches, about eleven inches,about twelve inches, about fourteen inches, about eighteen inches, abouttwenty-four inches, etc.). As discussed above, this spacing can assistin shaping desired wave forms in the tank 114, directing flow of fluidin the tank, and lofting kitchenware in the tank, each of which can helpin cleaning operation.

The intake cover 142 also includes a projection 146 extending into thetank 114 and positioned along at least part of the intake cover 142. Theprojection 146 helps keep kitchenware (e.g., plates, pans, dishware,trays, etc.) from being drawn up flush against the intake cover 142 andblocking fluid movement through the inlets 144 (which could decreaseoperational efficiency of the washing unit 102). The projection 146 ofthe intake cover 142 defines a generally V-shaped rib that extendslongitudinally across a substantial length of the intake cover 142. Inother example embodiments, intake covers may include projections thatextend across less than a substantially entire length of the intakecovers. In still other example embodiments, intake covers may includeone or more vertically extending projections. In some exampleembodiments, intake covers may include projections havingcross-sectional shapes and geometric configurations that arehemispherical and have substantially solid cross-sections (e.g.trapezoidal, triangular, rectangular, etc.) and that do not define achannel.

With that said, the inlets 144 of the intake cover 142 are notnecessarily configured to avoid suction at the surface of the intakecover 142 facing into the tank 114. In fact, the inlets 144 can beconfigured (e.g., sized, shaped, oriented, etc.) to help promote slightsuction at the surface of the intake cover 142. This suction/pullingaction on the kitchenware in the tank 114, together with the pushingaction on the kitchenware created by the fluid being discharged into thetank 114 via the discharge chamber 138, helps create a lifting action(e.g., a circular, rotating motions via the fluid, etc.) of thekitchenware in the tank 114 which in turn helps improve cleaningoperation of the assembly 100. This is particularly beneficial in theillustrated embodiment because the fluid is being discharged into thetank 114 from only one discharge chamber 138 located on only one side ofthe tank 114 (as opposed to being discharged from two or more dischargechambers located on two or more different sides of the tank 114 wheresuch suction/pulling action may not be needed to provide desired liftingaction on kitchenware in the tank 114). As such, in the illustratedembodiment the suction/pulling action at the intake cover 142compliments the single side discharge of fluid into the tank 114 fromthe discharge chamber 138 and helps provide the desired lifting actionof the kitchenware in the tank. The projection 146 is then provided tohelp counteract this slight suction and help keep kitchenware from beingdrawn up flush against the intake cover 142 and blocking fluid movementthrough the inlets 144.

With additional reference to FIGS. 6 and 8, an additional screen 147 isprovided within the intake chamber 136, and positioned over the opening154 where the conduit 134 a couples the pump 132 to the intake chamber136. This additional screen 147 is configured (e.g., includesperforations, etc.) to allow fluid to flow from the intake chamber 136,through the screen 147, and to the pump 132, while at the same timeinhibiting movement of any unintended objects (e.g., kitchenware, foodparticles, etc.) that enter the intake chamber 136 from furthertraveling to the pump 132 (which could inadvertently affect operation ofthe pump 132). As such, the additional screen 147 provides a second lineof protection to the pump 132.

In the illustrated embodiment, the screen 147 is configured to be slidinto and out of the intake chamber 136 through opening 140 (e.g., viahandle 149, etc.). When slid into the intake chamber 136, the screen 147is positioned over opening 154 with edge portions 151 of the screen 147located under mounting clips 153. And, the intake cover 142 can then bepositioned over opening 140. To remove the screen 147, the intake cover142 is first removed from the opening 140, and the edge portions 151 ofthe screen 147 are slid out of the mounting clips 153 and the screen 147is then removed from the intake chamber 136 through the opening 140. Inother embodiments, screens may be incorporated into intake covers suchthat they can be installed and/or removed from kitchenware washingassemblies together with the intake covers.

With additional reference now to FIG. 9, the discharge chamber 138 ispositioned along the side wall 116 of the tank 114 in fluidiccommunication with the pump 132. The discharge chamber 138 is also influidic communication with the tank 114 through an opening defined inthe side wall of the tank 114. In the illustrated embodiment, thedischarge chamber 138 is the only discharge chamber associated with thetank 114. Additional discharge chambers are not located on other walls(e.g., walls 118, 120, 122, etc.) of the tank 114. Further, thedischarge chamber 138 could alternatively be positioned along another ofthe walls (e.g., walls 118, 120, 122, etc.) of the tank 114, or along adifferent portion of the side wall 116 than illustrated herein. In otherexample embodiments, however, washing assemblies may include dischargechambers located on multiple different walls of tanks, multipledischarge chambers located on common walls in tanks, etc.

A discharge cover 148 (FIG. 6) is positioned over the discharge chamber138 and is coupled thereto via suitable fasteners (e.g., mechanicalfasteners, etc.). The discharge cover 148 includes outlets 150 (e.g.,openings, etc.) configured to discharge washing fluid from the dischargechamber 138 (through the discharge cover 148) into the tank 114. Theoutlets 150 are configured (e.g., sized, shaped, positioned, etc.) toprovide a desired discharge volume, velocity, flow rate, and/or flowpattern of washing fluid into the tank 114. This configuration of theoutlets 150 can be altered as desired to adjust any one or more of thesefeatures. In the illustrated embodiment the outlets 150 are locatedtoward one longitudinal side portion of the discharge cover 148 (e.g.,toward the side portion of the discharge cover 148 located toward thefront wall 122 of the tank 114, etc.). As such, washing fluid isdischarged into the tank 114 adjacent the front wall 122 and circulatesgenerally horizontally in the tank 114 (e.g., generally counterclockwiseas viewed in FIG. 5, etc.). In addition, because it is desirable to havethe washing fluid directed downward into the tank 114 to avoid splashingfluid out of the tank 114, the discharge chamber 138 (and the dischargecover 148) is located in the illustrated embodiment along the downwardlyangled portion of side wall 116. Thus, the washing fluid is alsodischarged downwardly into the tank 114 and further circulates generallyvertically (e.g., generally counterclockwise as viewed in FIG. 4, etc.).In other embodiments, discharge covers can have other configurations ofoutlets within the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., outletslocated toward bottoms of the covers, tops of the covers, differentlysized openings across the covers, etc.).

The intake cover 142 and the discharge cover 148 are both configured tobe uncoupled and re-coupled to the tank 114 as desired (e.g., slidablyuncoupled and re-coupled, for example, via keyholes and pins, etc.;etc.). Advantageously, this allows the interior of the intake anddischarge chambers 136, 138 (and any components therein) to be readilyaccessed, for example, for cleaning and sanitizing. This also allows theintake and discharge covers 142, 148 themselves, and their inlets 144and outlets 150, to be more easily serviced, for example, to replace thecovers 142, 148, clean out the inlets 144 and outlets 150, and/or cleanother portions of the covers 142, 148. In addition, this allows theintake and discharge covers 142, 148 to be interchanged with otherintake and discharge covers (e.g., other covers having different openingconfigurations therein, etc.).

With continued description of the washing station 108, in theillustrated embodiment a temperature sensor 152 (e.g., a thermocouple,etc.) is located within the intake chamber 136 (FIG. 4), adjacent theopening 154 where the conduit 134 a couples the pump 132 to the intakechamber 136 (FIG. 5). The temperature sensor 152 is positioned withinthe intake chamber 136 (e.g., entirely, etc.) so that the screen 147 canbe positioned within the intake chamber 136 and the intake cover 142 canbe positioned over the intake chamber 136 without interference from thetemperature sensor 152. The temperature sensor 152 is configured tomonitor (including measuring) temperature of the washing fluid in thetank 114 (and more particularly in the chamber 136 as the washing fluidis drawn out of the tank 114) to help ensure properly heated washingfluid is used to clean the kitchenware. The temperature sensor 152 caninclude any suitable sensor capable of monitoring fluid temperature.And, the temperature sensor 152 can be coupled to the intake chamber 136(within the intake chamber 136) by suitable means (e.g., by mechanicalfasteners, by releasable couplings such as described in U.S. Pat. No.7,578,305 (which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety),etc.). The temperature sensor 152 may be configured to send and/orreceive temperature signals to a control system 180, as desired. In someexample embodiments, the temperature sensor 152 may be included as partof a heating unit for controlling temperature of washing fluid in theassembly 100. In some example embodiments, the temperature sensor 152may be located differently than disclosed herein (e.g., other thanwithin the intake chamber 136, etc.) to monitor temperature of washingfluid in the assembly 100 (e.g., even other than within the tank 114such as within a flow path of the washing fluid when outside the tank114, etc.).

A pump sensor 155 is located adjacent the pump 132 for monitoring atleast one or more desired parameters (e.g., voltage usage, current draw,pressure, fluid displacement, etc.) of the pump. In the illustratedembodiment, the pump sensor 155 includes a current sensor configured tomonitor current draw of the pump 132. The current draw of the pump 132can then be used to evaluate operational performance of the pump 132such as, for example, fluid flow to and/or through the pump 132 (orrestriction thereof), etc. For example, if the monitored current draw ofthe pump 132 deviates from a specified value, this may suggest thatfluid flow to and/or through the pump 132 is being restricted (e.g., bydebris, etc.) and the pump 132 needs to be cleaned and/or the assembly100 needs to be inspected. This will be described in more detailhereinafter.

Further, a fluid level sensor 194 (e.g., a float, a float switch, etc.)is provided for monitoring fluid level in the assembly 100. In theillustrated embodiment, the fluid level sensor 194 is provided withinthe intake chamber 136, and is positioned (e.g., entirely, etc.) so thatthe screen 147 can be positioned within the intake chamber 136 and theintake cover 142 can be positioned over the intake chamber 136 withoutinterference from the fluid level sensor 194. The fluid sensor 194 couldbe located at other locations in the kitchenware washing assembly 100 asdesired. In addition, in other example embodiments, capacitive sensors(e.g., switches, etc.) may be provided to monitor fluid levels in tanks,for example, to determine fluid levels at give times, to determine whenfluid levels are low, to determine when tanks are full (e.g., in usewith automatic filling operations of tanks, etc.), etc.

With reference now to FIGS. 1, 2, and 10, the sanitizing unit 104 of theillustrated assembly 100 generally includes a rinsing station 156, asanitizing station 158, and a drain board 159. The rinsing station 156is used to rinse washing fluid, wash agent (e.g., soap, etc.), washchemical, etc. from the cleaned kitchenware received from the washingstation 108. The sanitizing station 158 is used to sanitize the rinsedkitchenware as desired. And, the drain board provides a transitionsurface for the kitchenware after it is rinsed and sanitized. Anysuitable fluid can be used to rinse and/or sanitize the cleanedkitchenware (e.g., water, heated water, etc.). In other exampleembodiments, splash guards may be coupled (e.g., releasably coupled,bolted, snap fit coupled, quick release coupled, etc.) around perimetersof rinsing stations, sanitizing stations, and/or drain boards ofkitchenware washing assemblies to, for example, help inhibit fluidspillage from out of the stations, etc. In other example embodiments,kitchenware washing assemblies may include drain boards releasablycoupled thereto (e.g., to sanitizing stations, etc.), where the drainboards may also include adjustable legs to help position them as desiredrelative to the kitchenware washing assemblies.

The rinsing station 156 includes a sink 160 configured to catch rinsingfluid and any washing fluid, wash agent (e.g., soap, etc.), washchemical, etc. removed from the cleaned kitchenware (as well as any fooditems or residue inadvertently removed from the tank 114 of the washingunit 102 with the kitchenware). A drain 162 (and valve 128) is providedin the sink 160 to remove the rinsed fluids, wash agents, chemicals,etc. from the sink 160. And, an overflow 164 is provided to channelrinsed fluids, wash agents, chemicals, etc. to the drain 162 as needed(e.g., upon reaching a certain level in the sink 160, etc.). The drain162 can be conventionally coupled to plumbing and/or drainage systems toultimately dispose of the rinsed fluids, wash agents, chemicals, etc.

The sanitizing station 158 also includes a sink 166. Here, the sink 166is configured to catch fluid used to sanitize the cleaned and rinsedkitchenware. A drain 168 (and valve 128) is provided in the sink 166 toremove the sanitizing fluid from the sink 166. And, an overflow 170 isprovided to channel rinsed fluids, wash agents, chemicals, etc. to thedrain 168 as needed (e.g., upon reaching a certain level in the sink166, etc.). The drain 168 can be conventionally coupled to plumbingand/or drainage systems to ultimately dispose of the sanitizing fluidwhen needed.

While not illustrated, the rinsing station 156 and/or the sanitizingstation 158 may be equipped with removable perforated covers, screens,etc. to help catch food items, residue, or other items from falling intotheir sinks. The covers screens, etc. can also provide additional workspace over the sinks as needed.

With reference again to FIG. 1, a skirt 172 is provided generally aroundthe sink 110 of the scraping station 106 and the tank 114 of the washingstation 108. And, the support platform 133 a supports the skirt 172 (andthe sink 110 and the tank 114) above the ground (e.g., at a desiredheight, etc.). A skirt 174 is also provided generally around the sink160 of the rinsing station 156 and the sink 166 of the sanitizingstation 158. And a support platform 133 b is provided to support theskirt 174 (and sinks 160, 166) above the ground (e.g., at a desiredheight, etc.). The skirt 174 of the sanitizing unit 104 includes aflange 176 configured to couple the skirt 174 to the skirt 172 of thewashing unit 102. The flange 176 is configured to fit over (and befastened to (e.g., via mechanical fasteners, etc.)) a lip 178 of thewashing unit skirt 172 to thereby couple the washing unit 102 and thesanitizing unit 104.

The illustrated assembly 100 also includes the control system 180, whichis shown mounted to the washing unit 102 generally under the scrapingstation 106. The control system 180 is configured to control operationof the pump 132 for circulating washing fluid in the tank 114. Inparticular, the control system 180 is configured to alter the frequencyand/or speed of the pump 132 when desired to speed up, or slow down, orturn off the pump 132. To help accomplish this, the control system 180can also be configured to monitor temperature of the washing fluid inthe tank 114 (via communication with the temperature sensor 152) andmonitor performance of the pump 132 (via communication with the pumpsensor 155). The control system 180 may include a user interface (e.g.,a graphical user interface such as a touchpad, etc.) configured toreceive at least one user input related to operation of the assembly 100(e.g., fluid temperature, pump operation, etc.).

In the illustrated embodiment, the control system 180 is programmed(e.g., preprogrammed prior to use, programmed via operator inputs at thetime of use, etc.) to control operation of the pump 132 as a function oftime and/or as a function of temperature and/or as a function ofperformance and/or as a function of fluid level.

For example, the control system 180 can operate the pump 132 for adesired period of time (e.g., a preprogrammed period of time, a manuallyentered period of time, etc.) at a desired frequency (e.g., apreprogrammed frequency, a manually entered frequency, etc.) and/or at adesired speed (e.g., a preprogrammed speed, a manually entered speed,etc.) to thereby provide a desired level of turbulence of washing fluidin the tank 114. Then, after the desired period of time is expired, thecontrol system 180 can change operation of the pump 132 to a differentfrequency and/or speed to thereby provide a different level ofturbulence of the washing fluid in the tank 114. For example, this pumpoperation can promote a generally high level of turbulence of washingfluid in the tank 114 for cleaning the kitchenware therein for thedesired period of time (e.g., in a wash mode, etc.). And when thedesired period of time expires, the control system 180 is programmed tocycle the pump 132 to an idle mode having a lower frequency and/orspeed. In the idle mode, the pump operation (which can be maintained forany desired length of time) promotes a generally low level of turbulenceof the washing fluid in the tank 114 that helps inhibit material removedfrom the kitchenware from settling back onto the kitchenware (while thekitchenware remains in the tank 114 prior to removal) and that allowsfor removal of the cleaned kitchenware from the tank 114 by a userwithout splashing the user with washing fluid. In addition in the idlemode, the low level of turbulence of the washing fluid in the tank 114helps inhibit oil slicks from forming at the surface of the washingfluid (e.g., low foam soap may be used for cleaning the kitchenware, andthe low turbulence of the washing fluid in the idle mode helps keepgrease encapsulated within the soap to inhibit oil slicks from forming,etc.) such that cleaned kitchenware can be removed from the tank 114without moving through an oil slick. With that said, it should beappreciated that a third operating mode can also be included in theassembly which provides a medium level of fluid turbulence in the tank114, between the high turbulence level and the idle mode level, whichcan also be selected, for example, to wash delicate kitchenware,plastics, etc.

In addition, the control system 180 can receive temperature signals fromthe temperature sensor 152 in the intake chamber 136 of the washing unit102 and use the received signals as another basis for controllingoperation of the pump 132. In the illustrated embodiment, if thetemperature signal indicates that the temperature of the washing fluidin the intake chamber 136 is below a first specified temperature (e.g.,about 95 degrees Fahrenheit, etc.) (e.g., a preprogrammed temperature, amanually entered temperature, etc.), the control system 180 activates afirst signal 182 a (e.g., a visual warning alarm, an amber light, etc.)indicating that the temperature of the washing fluid is low. If thetemperature signal indicates that the temperature of the washing fluidis below a second, lower specified temperature (e.g., about 85 degreesFahrenheit, etc.) (e.g., a preprogrammed temperature, a manually enteredtemperature, etc.), the control system 180 activates a second signal 182b (e.g., a visual warning alarm, a red light, etc.) indicating that thetemperature of the washing fluid is below a minimum acceptabletemperature. Here, the control system 180 then also deactivates the pump132 and prevents further operation of the washing assembly 100 until thetemperature signal indicates that the temperature of the washing fluidis acceptable.

Further, the control system 180 can receive signals from the pump sensor155 and use the received signals as still another basis for controllingoperation of the pump 132. In the illustrated embodiment, for example,if the signal indicates that the monitored parameter (e.g., the currentdraw of the pump 132, etc.) is below a specified value (e.g., apreprogrammed value, a manually entered value, etc.) (e.g., themonitored current draw is below about ten amps as measured when the pump132 is operating at a higher frequency wash mode, etc.), the controlsystem 180 may activate a signal 187 (e.g., a visual warning alarm, anamber light, etc.) indicating that performance of the pump 132 is low(e.g., fluid flow to and/or through the pump 132 is restricted, etc.),and that the pump 132 needs service and/or the kitchenware washingassembly 100 needs inspection. Here, the control system 180 then alsodeactivates the pump 132 and prevents further operation of the washingassembly 100 until the pump 132 is serviced and/or the assembly 100 isinspected (e.g., until the measured parameter of the pump 132 is againacceptable, etc.). Alternatively, in some example embodiments, if pumpsignals indicate that monitored parameters (e.g., current draws, etc.)are below first specified values (e.g., monitored current draws arebelow about ten amps as measured when the pumps are operating at higherfrequency wash modes, etc.), control systems may activate signalsindicating that performance of the pumps is low. Then, if the pumpsignals indicate that the monitored parameters (e.g., the current draws,etc.) are below second specified values (e.g., monitored current drawsof about seven amps as measured when the pumps are operating at higherfrequency wash modes, etc.), the control systems activate second signalsand also deactivate the pumps and prevent further operations.

The control system 180 can also receive signals from the fluid levelsensor 194 and use the received signals as still another basis forcontrolling operation of the pump 132. In the illustrated embodiment,for example, if the signal indicates that the fluid level in theassembly 100 (e.g., in the tank 114, in the intake chamber 136, etc.) isbelow a first specified level (e.g., a preprogrammed value, a manuallyentered value, etc.), the control system 180 deactivates the pump 132and prevents further operation of the washing assembly 100 (e.g., dryoperation of the pump 132, etc.) until fluid is added. In addition, insome example embodiments, if fluid temperature signal indicate thatfluid levels are below first specified levels, control system mayactivate first signals indicating that the fluid levels are low and thatfluid should be added. Then, if the signals indicate that the fluidlevels are below second specified values, the control systems activatesecond signals indicating that the fluid levels are unacceptable, andalso deactivate the pumps.

In the illustrated embodiment, an override 196 (e.g., a unique keyedlock, a digital lock, a pin code, etc.) is included with the controlsystem 180 to manually restore operation to the assembly (e.g., to allowfor reactivation of the pump 132, etc.) if operation has beenterminated, for example, due to low fluid level, low fluid temperature,poor pump performance, etc. but not rectified (to thereby allowcontinued operation if needed). The override 196 is typically open(e.g., an override switch is typically open, etc.) during normaloperation of the control system 180. However, the override 196 isconfigured to close if, as noted above, operation has been terminateddue to low fluid level, low temperature, poor pump performance, etc.(and the low fluid level or low temperature or poor pump performance isnot rectified).

It should be appreciated that the control system 180 can be used togenerate any desired signal to indicate, for example, low temperature ofthe washing fluid, low or unacceptable performance of the pump 132, lowfluid levels, etc. For example, the control system 180 can be used togenerate the signals just described (e.g., the visual signals, etc.). Inaddition (or alternatively), the control system 180 could be used togenerate additional signals associated with various different operationsof the washing assembly 100 and/or statuses of components thereof.Further, any of the generated signals may be transmitted to desiredlocals remotely located from the assembly 100. Signals may include (butare not limited to) visual signals, audible signals, sensory signals,data based signals, alarm-type signals, other output-type signals,combinations of any desired signals, groups of any desired signals, etc.In one example embodiment, a kitchenware washing assembly may include acontrol system having a touch screen, where all features of the systemare controlled through the touch screen (e.g., via one or moremicroprocessors, etc.). Here, backlighting of the touch screen may beconfigured to change to a desired color (e.g., red, etc.) and flash as asignal to indicate, for example, low temperature of washing fluid in theassembly, low or unacceptable operation of the pump 132, low fluidlevel, etc.

The control system 180 can also be configured to receive one or moreinputs from other sensors (e.g., other temperature sensors, other fluidlevel sensors, pH sensors, other pump monitoring sensors, etc.) and/orother components of the assembly 100 located in and/or about thekitchenware washing assembly 100. The control system 180 can also beconfigured to receive one or more inputs from external sources for usein determining washing operations. And, the control system 180 can beconfigured to activate desired signals (as just described, for example,alarms, etc.) in response to any one or more of such inputs. Inaddition, the control system 180 can be configured to control operationsof the assembly 100 as a function of computer executable instructions,user inputs, and/or data inputs.

With reference now to FIG. 11, an example wiring configuration for usewith the (or as the) control system 180 of the kitchenware washingassembly 100 is schematically illustrated. The configuration generallyincludes a power switch 186 (broadly, a toggle) configured to turn thecontrol system 180 on and off and to select desired turbulence levels inthe tank, and a momentary switch 188 (broadly, an actuator) configuredto cycle operation of the pump 132 between an idle speed operating mode,a low speed operating mode, and a higher speed operating mode. A timer190 is configured to control a duration of operation of the pump 132 atone or more of the idle speed operating mode, the low speed operatingmode, and the higher speed operating mode (e.g., a duration of 10minutes, greater than 10 minutes, less than 10 minutes, etc.; a durationbased on real time such as, for example, specifying operation at one ormore operating modes based on real time values; etc.). The configurationalso generally includes a power coupling 195 and a wired controller 198for use in operation.

Various relays 192 are provided to control different operations of thepump 132 including, for example, a speed relay 792 b for use incontrolling operation of the pump 132 at the idle, low, and/or higherspeed operating modes and for use in controlling changes of the pumpmotor speeds, a temperature fault relay 192 c for use in terminatingoperation of the pump 132 if a temperature of the washing fluid fallsbelow a specified level, a float relay 192 f for use in deactivatingoperation of the pump 132 if the fluid level is below a specific fluidlevel, etc. Various additional features are also included in theillustrated configuration (as indicated by the additional wiringsymbols/nomenclature), and are self-explanatory in nature such that theyare not further discussed herein.

An example operation of the illustrated assembly 100 will be describednext. It should be appreciated that various features associated withsuch example operation can include manual features and/or automatedfeatures as desired. In addition, programmable controllers (e.g.,programmable logic controllers, microprocessors, etc.) may be usedwithin the scope of the present disclosure.

The drain 126 of the washing station tank 114 is initially closed (viathe valve 128). And, the tank 114 is filled with heated washing fluid(e.g., water at about 120 degrees Fahrenheit with wash agent addedthereto, etc.) to a desired operating level (e.g., to a desired levelindicated on a wall of the tank 114, etc.). The control system 180 isthen activated. In particular, the power switch 186 is activated toengage initial operation of the pump 132 in either the idle operatingmode, or one of the desired higher speed operating modes. The pump 132operates to draw, remove, etc. washing fluid from out of the intakechamber 136 (from the tank 114 through the inlets 144 of the intakechamber 136) to the pump 132 (via conduit 134 a) (FIG. 5). The pump 132then directs the washing fluid to the discharge chamber 138 (via conduit134 b) for discharge back into the tank 114 through the discharge cover148 (FIG. 5). The discharge cover 148 is configured to build up washingfluid in the discharge chamber 138 (behind the discharge cover 148)prior to discharge back into the tank 114. Thus, the washing fluid isdischarged into the tank 114 through the outlets 150 of the dischargecover 148 under pressure. This pressurized discharge helps provide theturbulence in the tank 114 for agitating, mixing, etc. the washingfluid. In the idle operating mode, the pump 132 operates at a generallylow frequency and/or speed and produces a generally low level ofturbulence of the washing fluid in the tank 114. During this operation,the sensors 152, 155, 194, etc. communicate with the control system 180.And, operation of the pump 132 continues as desired until, for example,the power switch 186 is deactivated, a temperature of the washing fluidin the tank falls below a specified temperature, the fluid level sensor194 indicates a fluid level is below a specified level, the pump sensor155 indicates low or unacceptable performance of the pump 132, aspecified time elapses, etc.

Once the control system 180 is activated and the pump 132 is operating,for example, in the idle mode, kitchenware initially rinsed over thesink 110 of the scraping station 106 can be placed in the agitatedwashing fluid in the tank 114 for cleaning. When the desired amount ofkitchenware is in the tank 114, the control system 180 can be used toincrease the operational speed of the pump 132 to thereby increase thelevel of turbulence of the washing fluid in the tank 114 (e.g., to cleanthe kitchenware in the tank 114, etc.). This is done by activating themomentary switch 188 (e.g., manually, automatically, etc.) which cyclesoperation of the pump 132 from the idle speed operating mode to adesired one of the generally higher speed operating modes (e.g., ahigher operating mode selected using the power switch 186 wheninitiating operation of the assembly 100, etc.). At this higher speedoperating mode, the pump 132 provides an increased level of turbulenceof the washing fluid in the tank (e.g., for washing kitchenware, etc.).This increased level of turbulence is maintained in the tank 114 by thepump 132 for a desired period of time, after which the control system180 decreases the operational speed of the pump 132 thus reducing thelevel of turbulence of the washing fluid in the tank 114. For example,at about the same time the pump 132 is cycled to the generally higheroperating speed mode, the timer 190 also activates and begins countingdown a specified period of time for which the pump 132 will operate atthe higher speed operating mode (or, it may alternatively specify a realtime value at which the pump 132 will cycle back to the lower operatingspeed mode). Following completion of the specified time, the controlsystem 180 cycles operation of the pump 132 back to a lower speedoperating mode (e.g., the idle speed operating mode, etc.) as desired.If operation is cycled to the idle speed operating mode, the kitchenwarecan then be removed from the tank 114 and processed as desired (e.g.,rinsed at the rinsing station 156, sanitized at the sanitizing station158, dried, combinations thereof, etc.).

When desired to again increase the level of turbulence of the washingfluid in the tank, the momentary switch 188 can again be activated tocycle operation of the pump 132 back to a generally higher speedoperating mode (thereby increasing the level of washing fluid turbulencein the tank). This again activates the timer 190 to begin counting downthe specified period of time at which the pump 132 will operate at thehigher speed operating mode. And, following completion of the specifiedtime, the control system 180 cycles operation of the pump 132 back to alower speed operating mode.

As the control system 180 is active (and as the pump 132 is operating),the control system 180 receives temperature readings from thethermocouple 152, pump readings from the pump sensor 155, and fluidlevel readings from the fluid level sensor 194.

For example, if a temperature reading received from the thermocouple 152is below a first specified temperature, the control system 180 activatesthe first signal 182 a indicating that the temperature of the washingfluid is low. If a temperature reading received from the thermocouple152 is below a second, lower specified temperature, the control system180 activates the second signal 182 b indicating that the temperature ofthe washing fluid is below a minimum acceptable temperature. Here, thecontrol system 180 also activates the low temperature fault relay 192 aand deactivates operation of the pump 132. The control system 180 thenprevents further operation of the pump 132 until the temperature signalindicates that the temperature of the washing fluid is acceptable oruntil the override 196 is activated.

Similarly, if a pump status reading received from the pump sensor 155 isbelow a specified value, the control system 180 activates the signal 187indicating that performance of the pump 132 is low and that the pump 132needs service and/or the kitchenware washing assembly needs inspection(e.g., for blockage, etc.). Here, the control system 180 alsodeactivates the pump 132 (e.g., via a pump protection relay, etc.) andprevents further operation of the washing assembly 100 until the pump132 is serviced and/or the assembly 100 is inspected, or until theoverride 196 is activated.

Further, if a fluid level reading received from the fluid level sensor194 is below a specified fluid level, the control system 180 activates asignal indicating that the fluid level is low and deactivates operationof the pump 132. Here, the control system 180 may also activate thefloat relay 192 f and deactivate operation of the pump 132. The controlsystem 180 then prevents further operation of the pump 132 until thefluid level signal (e.g., via the fluid level sensor 794, etc.)indicates that the fluid level of the washing fluid in the tank isacceptable or until the override 196 is activated.

Alternatively (or in addition), the timer 190 may be activated when thepump 132 begins operating at a lower speed operating mode. And, after aspecified period of time, the control system 180 may cycle operation ofthe pump 132 from the lower speed operating mode to a higher speedoperating mode. The timer 190 may then again be activated and begincounting down a specified period of time at which the pump 132 willoperate at the higher speed operating mode. Following completion of thespecified time, the control system 180 may then cycle operation of thepump 132 back to the lower speed operating mode. Or, alternatively (orin addition), the timer 190 may be activated when the pump 132 beginsoperating at the lower speed operating mode. And, after a specifiedperiod of time, the control system 180 may turn off the pump 132. Thetimer 190 may then again be activated and begin counting down aspecified period of time at which the pump 132 will again then activate.

It should be appreciated that the control system 180 (including theexample wiring configuration) could be used in connection with any otherexample embodiment disclosed herein, or in connection with any otherkitchenware washing assembly as desired.

While not shown, a spraying fixture could be mounted to a rearward wallof the washing unit 102 and/or the sanitizing unit 104, for example,generally above (or between, etc.) the scraping station 106 and thewashing station 108 and/or generally above (or between) the rinsingstation 156 and the sanitizing station 158. As such, the sprayingfixtures could operate to provide fluid (e.g., water, etc.) as desiredto the scraping station 106, the washing station 108, the rinsingstation 156, and/or the sanitizing station 158 for use in their variousoperations (e.g., rinsing kitchenware, cleaning kitchenware, sanitizingkitchenware, rinsing surfaces of the sinks and tank 114, etc.). Adischarge faucet could be mounted to the rearward wall of both thewashing unit 102 and the sanitizing unit 104 (e.g., in connection withthe spraying fixtures, etc.). For example, the discharge faucets couldbe mounted generally above the washing station 108 for use in providingfluid (e.g., water, etc.) to the tank 114 for filling the tank 114, andgenerally above the rinsing station 156 for use in rinsing the cleanedkitchenware. The discharge faucets may be formed as single units withthe spraying fixtures, or they may be separate units. When included, atleast one of the discharge faucets could be used to fill the tank 114with heated washing fluid, for example, in preparation for washingkitchenware, for adding additional heated washing fluid to the tank 114as needed, etc.

Further, filter systems could also be included in the assembly 100 withany one or more of the scraping station 106, the washing station 108,the rinsing station 156, and the sanitizing station 158 (e.g., inconnection with the drains thereof, etc.). The filter systems could, forexample, assist in reducing presence of food particles, debris, othercontaminants, etc. within the sinks and/or the tank 114, and/or withinwaste fluid from the assembly 100. Any suitable type of filter systemmay be used within the scope of the present disclosure.

A wide range of materials can be used for the sinks 110, 160, 166, thetank 114, and the skirts 172, 174 of the illustrated kitchenware washingassembly 100. For example, the sinks 110, 160, 166 and/or the tank 114and/or the skirts 172, 174 may be constructed from stainless steel, thusproviding a sturdy, long-lasting structure, or other suitable material.The tank may be constructed by suitable operations including, forexample, operations described in U.S. Pat. No. 7,578,305 (which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety).

In addition, any suitable pump can be used in connection with operationof the washing unit 102 of the illustrated kitchenware washing assembly100. For example, pumps operable at about 100 gallons per minute, morethan 100 gallons per minute, less than 100 gallons per minute, etc. canbe used. In addition, single-phase pumps, three-phase pumps, etc. may beused. Further, multiple pumps (e.g., two or more pumps, etc.) may beused together in combination in the kitchenware washing assembly 100 asdesired.

In some example embodiments, control systems may be programmed tooperate pumps for desired periods of time (e.g., about three minutes,about ten minutes, about thirty minutes, etc.) at desired frequenciesand/or at desired speeds. In some example embodiments, desiredfrequencies of the pumps may range from about 30 hertz (e.g., in idlemodes, etc.) to about 70 hertz (in wash modes, etc.). And, in someexample embodiments, the pumps may operate at about four amps at lowerfrequencies and/or speeds (e.g., in idle modes, etc.) and at aboutfifteen amps at higher frequencies and/or speeds (e.g., in wash modes,etc.). It should be appreciated that the numeric values included hereinare exemplary in nature and do not limit the scope of the presentdisclosure.

FIG. 12 is a schematic illustrating a wiring configuration according toone example embodiment of the present disclosure for use with or as acontrol system 280 of a kitchenware washing assembly. The control system280 (including the example wiring configuration) could be used inconnection with the assembly previously described and illustrated inFIGS. 1-11, or in connection with any other example embodiment disclosedherein, or in connection with any other kitchenware washing assembly.

The illustrated configuration generally includes a toggle 286 (e.g., anon/off switch, a power switch, a relay, a selector, etc.) configured toautomatically (or alternatively or in addition allow a user to manually)turn the control system 280 on and off, a push actuator 288 (e.g., amomentary switch, etc.) configured to cycle operation of a pump 232between at least one low speed operating mode (e.g., an idle operatingmode, etc.) and at least one higher speed operating mode (e.g., a washmode, etc.), and a timer 290 configured to control (e.g., automatically,etc.) a duration of operation of the pump 232 at a low speed operatingmode and/or at a higher speed operating mode. The configuration alsogenerally includes a power coupling 295 and a wired controller 298 foruse in operation.

As further shown in FIG. 12, a thermocouple 252 is provided in theillustrated configuration for monitoring temperature of fluid in anassembly in which the control system 280 is installed. And, variousrelays 292 are provided to control different operations of the pump 232(e.g., a hold relay 292 a for holding operation of the pump 232 at a lowspeed and/or at a higher speed for a desired period of time asdetermined by the timer 290, a speed relay 292 b for use in controllingchanges of the pump motor speeds, a low temperature protection relay 292c for use in terminating operation of the pump 232 if a temperature ofwashing fluid falls below a specified level, etc.). Further, visualindicators 282 a, 282 b are provided to indicate different states (e.g.,warning states, etc.) in the assembly (e.g., low temperature warningstates of the washing fluid, etc.). Various additional features are alsoincluded in the illustrated configuration (as indicated by theadditional wiring symbols/nomenclature in FIG. 12), and areself-explanatory in nature such that they are not further discussedherein.

To activate the control system 280, the toggle 286 is moved (e.g.,manually by the operator, automatically by the control system 280, etc.)from the “off” position to the “on” position. This initiates operationof the pump 232 in a low speed operating mode (e.g., the idle mode,etc.) which provides a generally low level of washing fluid turbulencein a tank of the assembly. This low speed operation of the pump 232continues, as desired, until the toggle 286 is activated back to the“off” position (e.g., manually by the operator, automatically by thecontrol system 280, etc.) or a temperature of the washing fluid in thetank falls below a specified temperature.

To increase the level of turbulence of the washing fluid in the tank(e.g., to clean kitchenware in the tank, etc.), the push actuator 288 isdepressed (e.g., manually by the operator, automatically by the controlsystem 280, etc.) which cycles operation of the pump 232 from the lowspeed operating mode to a higher speed operating mode. At this higherspeed operating mode, the pump 232 provides an increased level ofturbulence of the washing fluid in the tank. At about the same time, thetimer 290 also activates (e.g., automatically, etc.) and begins countingdown a specified period of time at which the pump 232 will operate atthe higher speed operating mode. Following completion of the specifiedtime, the control system 280 cycles operation of the pump 232 back to alow speed operating mode. When desired to again increase the level ofturbulence of the washing fluid in the tank, the push actuator 288 isdepressed (e.g., manually by the operator, automatically by the controlsystem 280, etc.) to cycle operation of the pump 232 back to a higherspeed operating mode (thereby increasing the level of washing fluidturbulence in the tank). This again activates the timer 290 to begincounting down the specified period of time at which the pump 232 willoperate at the higher speed operating mode. And, following completion ofthe specified time, the control system 280 cycles operation of the pump232 back to a low speed operating mode.

As the control system 280 is active (and as the pump 232 is operating),the control system 280 receives temperature readings from thethermocouple 252. If a temperature reading received from thethermocouple 252 is below a first specified temperature, the controlsystem 280 activates an amber visual signal 282 a indicating that thetemperature of the washing fluid is low. If a temperature readingreceived from the thermocouple 252 is below a second, lower specifiedtemperature, the control system 280 activates a red visual signal 282 bindicating that the temperature of the washing fluid is below a minimumacceptable temperature. Here, the control system 280 also activates thelow temperature protection relay 292 c and immediately (e.g.,automatically, etc.) deactivates the operation of the pump 232. Thecontrol system 280 then prevents further operation of the pump 232 untilthe temperature signal indicates that the temperature of the washingfluid is acceptable.

FIG. 13 is a schematic illustrating a wiring configuration according toone example embodiment of the present disclosure for use with or as acontrol system 380 of a kitchenware washing assembly. The control system380 (including the example wiring configuration) could be used inconnection with the assembly 100 previously described and illustrated inFIGS. 1-11, or in connection with any other example embodiment disclosedherein, or in connection with any other kitchenware washing assembly.

The illustrated configuration generally includes a toggle 386 configuredto turn the control system 380 on and off and cycle a pump 332 betweenan “off” position, a “low” operating condition, and a “high” operatingcondition. The configuration also generally includes a power coupling395 and a wired controller 398 for use in operation. A thermocouple 352is provided for monitoring temperature of fluid in an assembly in whichthe control system 380 is installed. And, various relays 392 areprovided to control different operations of the pump 332 (e.g., a lowspeed relay 392 b for controlling operation of the pump 332 at the lowoperating condition, a high speed relay 392 d for controlling operationof the pump 332 at the high operating condition, a low temperatureprotection relay 392 c for use in terminating operation of the pump 332if a temperature of washing fluid falls below a specified level, etc.).Further, visual indicators 382 a, 382 b are provided to indicatedifferent states (e.g., warning states, etc.) in the assembly (e.g., lowtemperature warning states of the washing fluid, etc.). Variousadditional features are also included in the illustrated configuration(as indicated by the additional wiring symbols/nomenclature in FIG. 13),and are self-explanatory in nature such that they are not furtherdiscussed herein.

To activate the control system 380, the toggle 386 is moved from the“off” position to the “low” position. This initiates operation of thepump 332 at a generally low operating speed (e.g., in an idle mode,etc.) which provides a generally low level of washing fluid turbulencein a tank of the assembly. This low speed operation of the pump 332continues, as desired, until the toggle 386 is activated either back tothe “off” position or to the “high” position, or until a temperature ofthe washing fluid in the tank falls below a specified temperature.

To increase the level of turbulence of the washing fluid in the tank(e.g., to clean kitchenware in the tank, etc.), the toggle 386 isactivated to the “high” position which cycles operation of the pump 332from the generally low operating speed to a higher operating speed. Atthis higher operating speed, the pump 332 provides an increased level ofturbulence of the washing fluid in the tank. This higher speed operationof the pump 332 continues, as desired, until the toggle 386 is activatedeither back to the “low” position or to the “off” position, or until atemperature of the washing fluid in the tank falls below a specifiedtemperature. Thus, the toggle 386 can be activated back and forthbetween the “off” position, the “low” position, and the “high” positionas desired (e.g., to provided desired levels of turbulence of thewashing fluid in the tank, etc.).

As the control system 380 is active (and as the pump 332 is operating),the control system 380 receives temperature readings from thethermocouple 352. If a temperature reading received from thethermocouple 352 is below a first specified temperature, the controlsystem 380 activates an amber visual signal 382 a indicating that thetemperature of the washing fluid is low. If a temperature readingreceived from the thermocouple 352 is below a second, lower specifiedtemperature, the control system 380 activates a red visual signal 382 bindicating that the temperature of the washing fluid is below a minimumacceptable temperature. Here, the control system 380 also activates thelow temperature protection relay 392 c and immediately deactivatesoperation of the pump 332. The control system 380 then prevents furtheroperation of the pump 332 until the temperature signal indicates thatthe temperature of the washing fluid is acceptable.

FIG. 14 is a schematic illustrating a wiring configuration according toanother example embodiment of the present disclosure for use with or asa control system 480 of a kitchenware washing assembly. The controlsystem 480 (including the example wiring configuration) could be used inconnection with the assembly 100 previously described and illustrated inFIGS. 1-11, or in connection with any other example embodiment disclosedherein, or in connection with any other kitchenware washing assembly.

The illustrated configuration generally includes a toggle 486 configuredto turn the control system 480 on and off, a push actuator 488configured to cycle operation of a pump 432 (e.g., a single phase pump,a three-phase pump, etc.) between at least one low speed operating mode(e.g., an idle operating mode, etc.) and at least one higher speedoperating mode, and a timer 490 configured to control a duration ofoperation of the pump 432 at the higher speed operating mode. Theconfiguration also generally includes a power coupling 495 and a wiredcontroller 498 for use in operation.

A thermocouple 452 is provided for monitoring temperature of fluid in anassembly in which the control system 480 is installed. A fluid levelsensor 494 (e.g., a float, a float switch, etc.) is provided formonitoring fluid level in the assembly. And, various relays 492 areprovided to control different operations of the pump 432 (e.g., a holdrelay 492 a for holding operation of the pump 432 at a higher speed fora desired period of time as determined by the timer 490, a speed relay492 b for use in controlling changes of the pump motor speeds, a lowtemperature protection relay 492 c for use in terminating operation ofthe pump 432 if a temperature of washing fluid falls below a specifiedlevel, etc.). Further, visual indicators 482 a-d as well as an audibleindicator 482 e are provided to indicate different operating states inthe assembly (e.g., a system “off” condition, a system “on” condition, alow temperature warning state of the washing fluid, a critical lowtemperature warning state of the washing fluid, etc.). Variousadditional features are also included in the illustrated configuration(as indicated by the additional wiring symbols/nomenclature in FIG. 14),and are self-explanatory in nature such that they are not furtherdiscussed herein.

In addition in this embodiment, an override 496 (e.g., a unique keyedlock, a digital lock, a pin-code lock, etc.) is included to manuallyrestore operation to the assembly (e.g., to allow for reactivation ofthe pump 432, etc.) if operation has been terminated due to low fluidlevel or low temperature (and the low fluid level or low temperature isnot rectified). The override 496 is typically open (e.g., an overrideswitch is typically open, etc.) during normal operation of the controlsystem 480. However, the override 496 is configured to close if, asnoted above, operation has been terminated due to low fluid level or lowtemperature (and the low fluid level or low temperature is notrectified).

Operation of the control system 480 of this embodiment (including theexample wiring configuration) to control operation of a kitchenwarewashing assembly in which the control system 480 is installed issubstantially similar to the operation described for the control system280 previously described and illustrated in FIG. 12. In this embodiment,however, the visual indicators 482 c and 482 d for the “off” and “on”positions of the toggle 486 are provided, and operation of the assemblycan be stopped, further, if the fluid level sensor 494 indicates a fluidlevel in the tank is below a specified level. For example, if a fluidlevel reading received from the fluid level sensor 494 is below aspecified fluid level, the control system 480 activates a signalindicating that the fluid level is low and deactivates operation of thepump 432. The control system 480 then prevents further operation of thepump 432 until the fluid level sensor 494 indicates that the level ofthe washing fluid in the tank is acceptable.

FIG. 15 is a schematic illustrating a wiring configuration according toone example embodiment of the present disclosure for use with or as acontrol system 580 of a kitchenware washing assembly. The control system580 (including the example wiring configuration) could be used inconnection with the assembly previously described and illustrated inFIGS. 1-11, or in connection with any other example embodiment disclosedherein, or in connection with any other kitchenware washing assembly.

The illustrated configuration generally includes a toggle 586 configuredto turn the control system 580 on and off, a push actuator 588configured to cycle operation between a pair of pumps 532 a, 532 b(e.g., three-phase, single speed pumps, etc.), and a timer 590configured to control a duration of operation of the pumps 532 a, 532 b.For example, the push actuator 588 can cycle operation between a firstpump 532 a operable at one or more low speed operating modes (e.g., anidle operating mode, etc.) and a second pump 532 b operable at one ormore higher speed operating modes. And, the timer 590 can control aduration of operation of the second pump 532 b at a higher speedoperating mode and/or a duration of operation of the first pump 532 a ata low speed operating mode. The configuration also generally includes apower coupling 595 and a wired controller 598 for use in operation.

A thermocouple 552 is provided for monitoring temperature of fluid in anassembly in which the control system 580 is installed. A fluid levelsensor 594 is provided for monitoring fluid level in the assembly. And,various relays 592 and controllers 598 are provided to control differentoperations of the pumps 532 a, 532 b (e.g., a hold relay 592 a forholding operation of the second pump 532 b at a higher speed for adesired period of time as determined by the timer 590, a low temperatureprotection relay 592 c for use in terminating operation of the pumps 532a, 532 b if a temperature of washing fluid falls below a specifiedlevel, a pair of motor controls 598 a, 598 b for selectively controllingoperation (and possibly switching between operation) of the first andsecond pumps 532 a, 532 b, etc.). Further, visual indicators 582 a-d aswell as an audible indicator 582 e are provided to indicate differentoperating states in the assembly (e.g., a system “off” condition, asystem “on” condition, a low temperature warning state of the washingfluid, a critical low temperature warning state of the washing fluid,etc.). And, an override 592 (e.g., a unique keyed lock, etc.) isincluded to manually restore operation to the assembly if operation hasbeen terminated due to low temperature and/or low fluid level, but notrectified. Various additional features are also included in theillustrated configuration (as indicated by the additional wiringsymbols/nomenclature in FIG. 15), and are self-explanatory in naturesuch that they are not further discussed herein.

To activate the control system 580, the toggle 586 is moved from the“off” position to the “on” position (changing the “off” visual indicator582 c to the “on” visual indicator 582 d). This initiates operation ofthe first pump 532 a in a low speed operating mode (e.g., the idle mode,etc.) which provides a generally low level of washing fluid turbulencein a tank of the assembly. This low speed operation of the first pump532 a continues, as desired, until either the toggle 586 is activatedback to the “off” position or a temperature of the washing fluid in thetank falls below a specified temperature or the fluid level sensor 594indicates a fluid level in the tank is below a specified level.

To increase the level of turbulence of the washing fluid in the tank(e.g., to clean kitchenware in the tank, etc.), the push actuator 588 isdepressed which cycles operation to the second pump 532 b at a higherspeed operating mode. At this higher speed operating mode, the secondpump 532 b provides an increased level of turbulence of the washingfluid in the tank. At about the same time, the timer 590 also activatesand begins counting down a specified period of time for which the secondpump 532 b will operate at the higher speed operating mode. If atemperature of the washing fluid in the tank falls below a specifiedtemperature or the fluid level sensor 594 indicates a fluid level in thetank is below a specified level, the control system 580 will activatethe appropriate signals (including terminating operation of the secondpump 532 b if needed). Following completion of the specified time, thecontrol system 580 cycles operation back to only the first pump 532 a atthe low speed operating mode (which provides a generally low level ofwashing fluid turbulence in a tank of the assembly). When desired toagain increase the level of turbulence of the washing fluid in the tank,the push actuator 588 is depressed to cycle operation to the second pump532 b again at the higher speed operating mode (thereby increasing thelevel of washing fluid turbulence in the tank). This again activates thetimer 590 to begin counting down the specified period of time at whichthe second pump 532 b will operate at the higher speed operating mode.And, following completion of the specified time, the control system 580cycles operation back to the first pump 532 a only.

As the control system 580 is active (and as the first and/or secondpumps 532 a, 532 b are operating), the control system 580 receivestemperature readings from the thermocouple 552 and fluid level readingsfrom the fluid level sensor 594. If a temperature reading received fromthe thermocouple 552 is below a first specified temperature, the controlsystem 580 activates an amber visual signal 582 a indicating that thetemperature of the washing fluid is low. If a temperature readingreceived from the thermocouple 552 is below a second, lower specifiedtemperature, the control system 580 activates both a red visual signal582 b and an audible signal 582 e indicating that the temperature of thewashing fluid is below a minimum acceptable temperature. Here, thecontrol system 580 also activates the low temperature protection relay592 c and deactivates operation of the pumps 532 a, 532 b. The controlsystem 580 then prevents further operation until the temperature signalindicates that the temperature of the washing fluid is acceptable oruntil the override 596 is activated. Similarly, if a fluid level readingreceived from the fluid level sensor 594 is below a specified fluidlevel, the control system 580 activates a signal indicating that thefluid level is low and similarly deactivates operation of the pumps 532a, 532 b. The control system 580 then prevents further operation of thepump until the fluid level sensor 594 indicates that the level of thewashing fluid in the tank is acceptable or until the override 596 isactivated.

FIG. 16 is a schematic illustrating a wiring configuration according toanother example embodiment of the present disclosure for use with or asa control system 680 of a kitchenware washing assembly. The controlsystem 680 (including the example wiring configuration) could be used inconnection with the assembly previously described and illustrated inFIGS. 1-11, or in connection with any other example embodiment disclosedherein, or in connection with any other kitchenware washing assembly.

The control system 680 is similar to the control system 480 shown inFIG. 14. For example, the illustrated configuration in FIG. 16 generallyincludes a toggle 686 configured to turn the control system 680 on andoff, a push actuator 688 configured to cycle operation of a pump 632(e.g., a single phase pump, a three-phase pump, etc.) between at leastone low speed operating mode (e.g., an idle operating mode, etc.) and atleast one higher speed operating mode, and a timer 690 configured tocontrol a duration of operation of the pump 632 at the higher speedoperating mode. The configuration also generally includes a powercoupling 695 and a wired controller 698 for use in operation.

A thermocouple 652 is provided for monitoring temperature of fluid in anassembly in which the control system 680 is installed. A fluid levelsensor 694 (e.g., a float switch, etc.) is provided for monitoring fluidlevel in the assembly. And, various relays 692 are provided to controldifferent operations of the pump 632 (e.g., a hold relay 692 a forholding operation of the pump 632 at a higher speed for a desired periodof time as determined by the timer 690, a speed relay 692 b for use incontrolling changes of the pump motor speeds, a low temperatureprotection relay 692 c for use in terminating operation of the pump 632if a temperature of washing fluid falls below a specified level, etc.).Further, visual indicators 682 a-d as well as an audible indicator 682 eare provided to indicate different operating states in the assembly(e.g., a system “off” condition, a system “on” condition, a lowtemperature warning state of the washing fluid, a critical lowtemperature warning state of the washing fluid, etc.). And, an override696 (e.g., a unique keyed lock, a digital lock, etc.) is included tomanually restore operation to the assembly (e.g., to allow forreactivation of the pump 632, etc.) if operation has been terminated dueto low fluid level or low temperature (and the low fluid level or lowtemperature is not rectified). Various additional features are alsoincluded in the illustrated configuration (as indicated by theadditional wiring symbols/nomenclature in FIG. 16), and areself-explanatory in nature such that they are not further discussedherein.

In this embodiment, the illustrated configuration further includes aload relay 692 e coupled to various components of the control system680. The load relay 692 e is configured to accommodate higher electricalloads than other components included in this embodiment (e.g., relay 692a, relay 692 b, relay 692 c, fluid level sensor 694, etc.). As such, theother components included in this embodiment can have lower ratings(e.g., can be configured to accommodate lower electrical loads, etc.)than corresponding components of the control system 480 illustrated inFIG. 14. Such a configuration can provide cost savings in constructingthe control system 680 while providing comparable operation to thecontrol system 480 illustrated in FIG. 14.

With that said, general operation of the control system 680 of thisembodiment (including the example wiring configuration) to controloperation of a kitchenware washing assembly in which the control system680 is installed is substantially similar to the operation described forthe control system 480 previously described and illustrated in FIG. 14(and thus will not be further described).

FIG. 17 is a schematic illustrating a wiring configuration according tostill another example embodiment of the present disclosure for use withor as a control system 780 of a kitchenware washing assembly 700. Withthat said, it should be appreciated that the control system 780(including the example wiring configuration) could also be used inconnection with the assembly 100 previously described and illustrated inFIGS. 1-11, or in connection with any other example embodiment disclosedherein, or in connection with any other kitchenware washing assembly.

The illustrated configuration in FIG. 17 generally includes a powerswitch 786 (broadly, a toggle) configured to turn the control system 780on and off and to select a desired operating speed of pump 732, amomentary switch 788 (broadly, an actuator) configured to cycleoperation of the pump 732 (e.g., a single phase pump, a three-phasepump, etc.) between a low speed operating mode (e.g., an idle operatingmode, etc.) and a selected higher speed operating mode, and a timer 790configured to control a duration of operation of the pump 732 at the lowspeed operating mode and/or at the higher speed operating mode (e.g., aduration of 10 minutes, greater than 10 minutes, less than 10 minutes,etc.). The configuration also generally includes a power coupling 795and a wired controller 798 for use in operation.

A thermocouple 752 is provided for monitoring temperature of fluid in anassembly 700 to which the control system 780 is coupled. A fluid levelsensor 794 (e.g., a float switch, etc.) is provided for monitoring fluidlevel in the assembly. And, various relays 792 are provided to controldifferent operations of the pump 732 (e.g., a temperature fault relay792 c for use in terminating operation of the pump 732 if a temperatureof washing fluid falls below a specified level, a speed relay 792 b foruse in controlling operation of the pump 732 at the low and higher speedoperating modes and for use in controlling changes of the pump motorspeeds, a float relay 792 f for use in deactivating operation of thepump 732 if the fluid level is below a specific fluid level, etc.).Further, visual indicators 782 a, 782 b are provided to indicate thatthe temperature of the washing fluid is low or to indicate that thetemperature of the washing fluid is below a minimum acceptabletemperature, respectively. And, an override 796 (e.g., a unique keyedlock, a digital lock, etc.) is included to manually restore operation tothe assembly (e.g., to allow for reactivation of the pump 732, etc.) ifoperation has been terminated due to low fluid level or low temperaturebut not rectified (and the low fluid level or low temperature is notrectified). Various additional features are also included in theillustrated configuration (as indicated by the additional wiringsymbols/nomenclature in FIG. 17), and are self-explanatory in naturesuch that they are not further discussed herein.

To activate the control system 780, a power switch 786 is activated.This initiates operation of the pump 732 in the low speed operating mode(e.g., the idle mode, etc.) which provides a generally low level ofwashing fluid turbulence in a tank of the assembly 700. This low speedoperation of the pump 732 continues, as desired, until either the powerswitch 786 is deactivated or a temperature of the washing fluid in thetank falls below a minimum acceptable temperature or the fluid levelsensor 794 indicates a fluid level in the tank is below a specifiedlevel.

To increase the level of turbulence of the washing fluid in the tank(e.g., to clean kitchenware in the tank, etc.), the momentary switch 788is activated (e.g., manually, automatically, etc.) which cyclesoperation of the pump 732 from the low speed operating mode to thehigher speed operating mode. At this higher speed operating mode, thepump 732 provides an increased level of turbulence of the washing fluidin the tank (e.g., for washing kitchenware, etc.). At about the sametime, the timer 790 also activates and begins counting down a specifiedperiod of time for which the pump 732 will operate at the higher speedoperating mode. Following completion of the specified time, the controlsystem 780 cycles operation of the pump 732 back to the low speedoperating mode (which provides a generally low level of washing fluidturbulence in a tank of the assembly). When desired to again increasethe level of turbulence of the washing fluid in the tank, the momentaryswitch 788 is activated to cycle operation of the pump 732 back to ahigher speed operating mode (thereby increasing the level of washingfluid turbulence in the tank). This again activates the timer 790 tobegin counting down the specified period of time at which the pump 732will operate at the higher speed operating mode. And, followingcompletion of the specified time, the control system 780 cyclesoperation of the pump 732 back to the low speed operating mode.

As the control system 780 is active (and as the pump 732 is operating),the control system 780 receives temperature readings from thethermocouple 752 and fluid level readings from the fluid level sensor794. If a temperature reading received from the thermocouple 752 isbelow the specified low temperature, the control system 780 activatesthe low temperature visual signal 782 a indicating that the temperatureof the washing fluid is low. If a temperature reading received from thethermocouple 752 is below the minimum acceptable temperature, thecontrol system 780 activates the temperature fault visual signal 782 bindicating that the temperature of the washing fluid is below theminimum acceptable temperature. Here, the control system 780 alsoactivates the low temperature fault relay 792 a and deactivatesoperation of the pump 732. The control system 780 then prevents furtheroperation of the pump 732 until the temperature signal indicates thatthe temperature of the washing fluid is acceptable or until the override796 is activated. Similarly, if a fluid level reading received from thefluid level sensor 794 is below a specified fluid level, the controlsystem 780 activates a signal indicating that the fluid level is low anddeactivates operation of the pump 732. Here, the control system 780 mayalso activates the float relay 792 f and deactivates operation of thepump 732. The control system 780 then prevents further operation of thepump 732 until the fluid level signal (e.g., via the fluid level sensor794, etc.) indicates that the fluid level of the washing fluid in thetank is acceptable or until the override 796 is activated.

FIG. 18 is a schematic illustrating a wiring configuration according tostill another example embodiment of the present disclosure for use withor as a control system 880 of a kitchenware washing assembly 800. Withthat said, it should be appreciated that the control system 880(including the example wiring configuration) could also be used inconnection with the assembly 100 previously described and illustrated inFIGS. 1-11, or in connection with any other example embodiment disclosedherein, or in connection with any other kitchenware washing assembly.

The illustrated configuration generally includes a power switch 886(broadly, a toggle) configured to turn the control system 880 on and offand to select a desired operating speed of pump 832, a momentary switch888 (broadly, an actuator) configured to cycle operation of the pump 832(e.g., a single phase pump, a three-phase pump, etc.) between a lowspeed operating mode (e.g., an idle operating mode, etc.) and a selectedhigher speed operating mode, and a timer 890 configured to control aduration of operation of the pump 832 at the low speed operating modeand/or at the higher speed operating mode. The configuration alsogenerally includes a power coupling 895 and a wired controller 898 foruse in operation.

A thermocouple 852 is provided for monitoring temperature of fluid in anassembly 800 to which the control system 880 is coupled. A fluid levelsensor 894 (e.g., a float switch, etc.) is provided for monitoring fluidlevel in the assembly 800. And, various relays 892 are provided tocontrol different operations of the pump 832 (e.g., a temperature faultrelay 892 c for use in terminating operation of the pump 832 if atemperature of washing fluid falls below a specified level, a speedrelay 892 b for use in controlling operation of the pump 832 at the lowand higher speed operating modes and for use in controlling changes ofthe pump motor speeds, a float relay 892 f for use in deactivatingoperation of the pump 832 if the fluid level is below a specific fluidlevel, etc.). Further, visual indicators 882 a, 882 b are provided toindicate that the temperature of the washing fluid is low or to indicatethat the temperature of the washing fluid is below a minimum acceptabletemperature, respectively. And, an override 896 (e.g., a unique keyedlock, a digital lock, etc.) is included to manually restore operation tothe assembly (e.g., to allow for reactivation of the pump 832, etc.) ifoperation has been terminated due to low fluid level or low temperaturebut not rectified (and the low fluid level or low temperature is notrectified). Various additional features are also included in theillustrated configuration (as indicated by the additional wiringsymbols/nomenclature in FIG. 18), and are self-explanatory in naturesuch that they are not further discussed herein.

With that said, general operation of the control system 880 of thisembodiment (including the example wiring configuration) to controloperation of kitchenware washing assembly 800 in which the controlsystem 880 is installed is substantially similar to the operationdescribed for the control system 780 previously described andillustrated in FIG. 17 (and thus will not be further described).

FIG. 19 is a schematic illustrating a wiring configuration according tostill another example embodiment of the present disclosure for use withor as a control system 980 of a kitchenware washing assembly 900. Withthat said, it should be appreciated that the control system 980(including the example wiring configuration) could also be used inconnection with the assembly 100 previously described and illustrated inFIGS. 1-11, or in connection with any other example embodiment disclosedherein, or in connection with any other kitchenware washing assembly.

The wiring configuration (and control system 980) of this embodiment issubstantially similar to the wiring configuration (and control system880) previously described and illustrated in FIG. 18. For example, theillustrated configuration generally includes a power switch 986configured to turn the control system 980 on and off and to select adesired operating speed of pump 932, a momentary switch 988 configuredto cycle operation of the pump 932 between a low speed operating modeand a selected higher speed operating mode, and a timer 990 configuredto control a duration of operation of the pump 932 at the low speedoperating mode and/or at the higher speed operating mode. Theconfiguration also generally includes a power coupling 995 and a wiredcontroller 998 for use in operation.

A thermocouple 952 is also provided for monitoring temperature of fluidin an assembly 900 to which the control system 980 is coupled. A fluidlevel sensor 994 is provided for monitoring fluid level in the assembly900. And, various relays 992 are provided to control differentoperations of the pump 932 (e.g., a temperature fault relay 992 c foruse in terminating operation of the pump 932 if a temperature of washingfluid falls below a specified level, a speed relay 992 b for use incontrolling operation of the pump 932 at the low and higher speedoperating modes and for use in controlling changes of the pump motorspeeds, a float relay 992 f for use in deactivating operation of thepump 932 if the fluid level is below a specific fluid level, etc.).Further, visual indicators 982 a, 982 b are provided to indicate thatthe temperature of the washing fluid is low or to indicate that thetemperature of the washing fluid is below a minimum acceptabletemperature, respectively. And, an override 996 is included to manuallyrestore operation to the assembly if operation has been terminated dueto low fluid level or low temperature but not rectified (and the lowfluid level or low temperature is not rectified). Various additionalfeatures are also included in the illustrated configuration (asindicated by the additional wiring symbols/nomenclature in FIG. 19), andare self-explanatory in nature such that they are not further discussedherein.

In this embodiment, however, a transformer 981 is provided for steppingdown power. For example, the illustrated transformer 981 is configuredto convert 230 volts to 120 volts.

General operation of the control system 980 of this embodiment(including the example wiring configuration) to control operation ofkitchenware washing assembly 900 in which the control system 980 isinstalled is substantially similar to the operation described for thecontrol system 880 previously described and illustrated in FIG. 18 (andthus will not be further described).

In some example embodiments, means for activating a pump of akitchenware washing assembly for circulating washing fluid in thekitchenware washing assembly may include, for example, mechanical means,automated means, toggles, switches, adjusters, actuators, dials, knobs,tuners, relays, selectors, electronic switches, input/output devices,devices capable of switching circuit loads, rotary selector switches,etc. And in some example embodiments, means for terminating operation ofthe pump if a temperature of washing fluid in the kitchenware washingassembly falls below a specified temperature as measured by atemperature sensor of the kitchenware washing assembly may includeautomated means, manual means, relays (e.g., solid-state relays, etc.),electronic switches, definite purpose relays, etc.

FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate an intake cover 1042 and screen 1047according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. The intakecover 1042 and screen 1047 could be used in connection with the assembly100 previously described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-11, or in connectionwith any other example embodiment disclosed herein, or in connectionwith any other kitchenware washing assembly.

The intake cover 1042 is configured to be positioned over an intakechamber of a kitchenware washing assembly, where the intake chamber isentirely open to a tank of the assembly. And, the intake cover 1042 canbe coupled to the tank of the assembly through keyed openings 1063 usingsuitable fasteners (e.g., mechanical fasteners, etc.). Multiple inlets1044 are uniformly and evenly spaced across a right portion (as viewedin FIG. 20) of the intake cover 1042. The inlets 1044 allow fluid topass through the intake cover 1042, but restrict food debris and otheritems (e.g., kitchenware items like silverware, etc.).

Further, a projection 1046 is positioned along a length of the intakecover 1042. The projection 1046 helps keep kitchenware (e.g., plates,pans, dishware, trays, etc.) from being drawn up flush against theintake cover 1042 and blocking fluid movement through the inlets 1044.In the illustrated embodiment, the projection 1046 defines a generallyV-shaped rib that extends longitudinally across the intake cover 1042.And, handles 1065 are provided for use in handling the intake cover 1042and coupling/removing the intake cover 1042 to/from a tank of akitchenware washing assembly (only one handle 1065 is shown in FIG. 20,on a left portion of the intake cover 1042, with it to be understoodthat a similar handle could be employed in the openings 1065 a on theright portion of the intake cover 1042). The handles 1065 are configuredto retract through the intake cover 1042 when not in use so as to notinterfere with washing operations.

The screen 1047 is configured to be positioned through opening 1067 ofthe intake cover 1042 and, when the intake cover 1042 is coupled over anintake chamber of a tank, positioned over an opening in the intakechamber leading to a pump. More particularly, a perforated portion 1047a of the screen 1047 (having openings 1069) is configured to fit throughthe opening 1067 of the intake cover 1042. In doing so, a user can grasphandle portion 1071 to help manipulate the screen 1047. When fullyinserted through the opening 1067, the handle portion 1071 then alignsgenerally flush with a forward facing surface (as viewed in FIG. 20) ofthe intake cover 1042 around the opening 1067. The screen 1047 isconfigured to allow fluid to flow from the intake chamber to the pump,while at the same time inhibiting movement of any kitchenware and/orfood particles that enter the intake chamber from further traveling tothe pump (which could then inadvertently affect operation of the pump).As such, the screen 1047 provides a second line of protection to thepump (in addition to the intake cover 1042).

In other example embodiments, kitchenware washing assemblies may includeintake covers and screens where the intake covers do not includeopenings for receiving the screens through the intake covers. As withthe intake cover 1042 illustrated in FIG. 20, such intake covers ofthese other example embodiments may be configured to cover entire intakechambers (e.g., the intake covers are configured to be positioned overthe intake chambers where the intake chambers are entirely open to tanksof kitchenware washing assemblies when not covered by the intake covers,etc.). However, in these other example embodiments, the intake coversmust be removed from the intake chambers to access the screens (e.g., toinstall the screens, remove the screens, etc.).

Specific dimensions and/or numeric values included herein are exemplaryin nature and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure. Forexample, fluid temperatures identified herein are provided as examplesand may vary depending on desired washing operations (e.g., amount ofturbulence, etc.), applications (e.g., type of kitchenware, degree ofcleaning required, etc.), conditions (e.g., type of washing fluid,etc.), etc. Similarly, washing times identified herein are provided asexamples and may vary depending on desired washing operations (e.g.,amount of turbulence, etc.), applications (e.g., type of kitchenware,degree of cleaning required, etc.), conditions (e.g., type of washingfluid, etc.), etc. Further, label nomenclature used in the drawings isexemplary in nature and does not limit the scope of the presentdisclosure.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexample embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As usedherein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and“having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of statedfeatures, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, butdo not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features,integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groupsthereof. The method steps, processes, and operations described hereinare not to be construed as necessarily requiring their performance inthe particular order discussed or illustrated, unless specificallyidentified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood thatadditional or alternative steps may be employed.

When an element or layer is referred to as being “on,” “engaged to,”“connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer, it may bedirectly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the other element orlayer, or intervening elements or layers may be present. In contrast,when an element is referred to as being “directly on,” “directly engagedto,” “directly connected to,” or “directly coupled to” another elementor layer, there may be no intervening elements or layers present. Otherwords used to describe the relationship between elements should beinterpreted in a like fashion (e.g., “between” versus “directlybetween,” “adjacent” versus “directly adjacent,” etc.). As used herein,the term “and/or” includes any and all combinations of one or more ofthe associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein todescribe various elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections,these elements, components, regions, layers and/or sections should notbe limited by these terms. These terms may be only used to distinguishone element, component, region, layer or section from another region,layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,” and other numericalterms when used herein do not imply a sequence or order unless clearlyindicated by the context. Thus, a first element, component, region,layer or section discussed below could be termed a second element,component, region, layer or section without departing from the teachingsof the example embodiments.

Spatially relative terms, such as “inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,”“lower,” “above,” “upper,” and the like, may be used herein for ease ofdescription to describe one element or feature's relationship to anotherelement(s) or feature(s) as illustrated in the figures. Spatiallyrelative terms may be intended to encompass different orientations ofthe device in use or operation in addition to the orientation depictedin the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turnedover, elements described as “below” or “beneath” other elements orfeatures would then be oriented “above” the other elements or features.Thus, the example term “below” can encompass both an orientation ofabove and below. The device may be otherwise oriented (rotated 90degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptorsused herein interpreted accordingly.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided forpurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or featuresof a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particularembodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be usedin a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described.The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modificationsare intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

1. A kitchenware washing assembly comprising: a tank configured to holdfluid for washing kitchenware; a pump in fluidic communication with thetank and configured to circulate fluid within the tank, the pump beingoperable at two or more different speeds to thereby create two or moredifferent levels of fluid turbulence within the tank; a sensorconfigured to monitor temperature of the fluid held within the tank; anda control system configured to control operation of the pump between theat least two or more different speeds, the control system configured tooperate the pump at a first one of the two or more different speeds fora specified time period and then cycle operation of the pump to a secondone of the two or more different speeds, the control system also beingin communication with the sensor and configured to activate at least oneindicator when the temperature of the fluid held within the tank fallsbelow a specified temperature.
 2. The assembly of claim 1, wherein theat least one indicator is selected from the group consisting of a visualindicator and an audible indicator.
 3. The assembly of claim 1, whereinthe control system is further configured to deactivate the pump when thetemperature of the fluid held within the tank falls below the specifiedtemperature.
 4. The assembly of claim 1, wherein the control system iseither configured to manually receive the specified temperature from auser or preprogrammed with the specified temperature.
 5. The assembly ofclaim 1, further comprising a pump sensor configured to monitor at leastone operational parameter of the pump, the control system being incommunication with the pump sensor and configured to activate the atleast one indicator when the at least one operational parameter of thepump deviates from a specified value.
 6. The assembly of claim 1,wherein the tank includes first and second opposing walls and third andfourth opposing walls defining at least part of the tank, the assemblyfurther comprising: an intake chamber associated with the first wall ofthe tank and configured to receive fluid from out of the tank; and adischarge chamber associated with the third wall of the tank andconfigured to receive fluid for discharge into the tank; wherein thesecond and fourth walls of the tank do not include either an intakechamber or a discharge chamber associated therewith.
 7. An automatedmethod for washing kitchenware using a commercial top-loadingkitchenware washing assembly, the method comprising: agitating washingfluid in a tank for a specified time period to thereby create a firstlevel of turbulence in the tank for washing kitchenware in the tank;after the specified time period, agitating the washing fluid in the tankto create a second level of turbulence in the tank, wherein the firstlevel of turbulence in the tank is greater than the second level ofturbulence in the tank; measuring a temperature of the washing fluidused for washing the kitchenware in the tank; and deactivating a pumpused for agitating the washing fluid in the tank if the measuredtemperature of the washing fluid is below a specified temperature. 8.The automated method of claim 7, wherein measuring a temperature of thewashing fluid used for washing the kitchenware in the tank includesmeasuring a temperature of the washing fluid when the washing fluid isreceived from out of the tank and into an intake chamber associated withthe tank.
 9. The automated method of claim 7, wherein agitating thewashing fluid in the tank to thereby create a first level of turbulencein the tank includes operating a pump at a first speed for the specifiedtime period to thereby create the first level of turbulence in the tankfor washing kitchenware in the tank, and wherein agitating the washingfluid in the tank to create a second level of turbulence in the tankincludes cycling operation of the pump to a second speed and operatingthe pump at the second speed to thereby create the second level ofturbulence in the tank.
 10. The automated method of claim 7, whereinagitating the washing fluid in the tank to thereby create a first levelof turbulence in the tank includes discharging fluid into the tank froma single side of the tank and at a generally downward angle to therebypromote generally vertical circulation of fluid within the tank to helpcreate the first level of turbulence.
 11. The automated method of claim10, wherein agitating the washing fluid in the tank to thereby create afirst level of turbulence in the tank further includes discharging thefluid into the tank from the single side of the tank to thereby promotegenerally horizontal circulation of the fluid within the tank to helpcreate the first level of turbulence.
 12. The automated method of claim7, further comprising activating an indicator if the temperature of thewashing fluid falls below the specified temperature.
 13. The automatedmethod of claim 12, wherein the indicator is selected from the groupconsisting of a visual indicator and an audible indicator.
 14. Theautomated method of claim 7, wherein the specified temperature is afirst specified temperature, the method further comprising activating anindicator if the temperature of the washing fluid falls below a secondspecified temperature, the first specified temperature being lower thanthe second specified temperature.
 15. The automated method of claim 14,wherein the first specified temperature is about 85 degrees Fahrenheitand the second specified temperature is about 95 degrees Fahrenheit. 16.The automated method of claim 7, further comprising monitoring at leastone operational parameter of the pump, and deactivating the pump if theat least one operational parameter of the pump deviates from a specifiedvalue.
 17. A control system for a kitchenware washing assembly, thecontrol system configured to be coupled to a pump and a temperaturesensor of the kitchenware washing assembly, the control systemcomprising: a toggle configured to activate a pump of a kitchenwarewashing assembly for circulating washing fluid in the kitchenwarewashing assembly; and a temperature protection relay configured toterminate operation of the pump if a temperature of washing fluid in thekitchenware washing assembly falls below a specified temperature asmeasured by a temperature sensor of the kitchenware washing assembly.18. The control system of claim 17, wherein the toggle includes at leasttwo speed settings for activating the pump of the kitchenware washingassembly, the at least two speed settings including a first setting thatoperates the pump at a first operating speed and a second setting thatoperates the pump at a second operating speed greater than the firstoperating speed.
 19. The control system of claim 17, further comprisinga float relay configured to deactivate operation of the pump if a fluidlevel in the kitchenware washing assembly is below a specific fluidlevel.
 20. The control system of claim 17, wherein the pump is a firstpump, the toggle configured to activate the first pump and a second pumpof the kitchenware washing assembly for circulating washing fluid in thekitchenware washing assembly, the control system further comprising anactuator configured to cycle operation between the first pump and thesecond pump.
 21. The control system of claim 17, further comprising anoverride configured to allow reactivation of the operation of the pump,after termination by the temperature protection relay, while thetemperature of the washing fluid in the kitchenware washing assemblyremains below the specified temperature.
 22. The control system of claim17, further comprising at least one indicator configured to activate ifthe temperature of washing fluid in the kitchenware washing assemblyfalls below the specified temperature.
 23. The control system of claim22, wherein the indicator is selected from the group consisting of avisual indicator and an audible indicator.
 24. The control system ofclaim 17, wherein the specified temperature is a first specifiedtemperature, the control system further comprising at least oneindicator configured to activate if the temperature of washing fluid inthe kitchenware washing assembly falls below a second specifiedtemperature.
 25. The control system of claim 24, wherein the firstspecified temperature is less than the second specified temperature. 26.The control system of claim 17, further comprising a pump protectionrelay configured to terminate operation of the pump if at least oneoperational parameter of the pump deviates from a specified value asmeasured by a pump sensor of the kitchenware washing assembly.